Guwahati: In a major recognition of exemplary police work, the Special Task Force (STF), Assam, has been awarded the prestigious Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak – 2025 in the Special Operations category for its remarkable success in neutralising a Jehadi group under Operation Praghat.
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs announced the award on Thursday following the approval of the Hon’ble Union Home Minister. The honour acknowledges the STF team’s exceptional operational precision, intelligence coordination, and professionalism in conducting a high-risk counter-terrorism mission that significantly enhanced Assam’s internal security.
The decorated STF team includes:
• Dr Partha Sarathi Mahanta, IPS, Inspector General of Police (STF), Assam – (honoured for the second time)
• Pranab Kumar Pegu, APS, Additional Superintendent of Police (STF)
• Anurag Sarmah, APS, Additional Superintendent of Police (STF)
• Kh. Satyendra Singh Hazari, APS, Deputy Superintendent of Police (STF)
• Inspector Saroj Doley
• Inspector Sankar Jyoti Nath
• Inspector Kapil Pathak
• Inspector Vikram Basumatary
According to the Ministry’s notification (No. 11024/02/2025-PMA, dated October 31, 2025), the award recognises officers and units across India for exceptional performance in the fields of Special Operations, Investigation, and Forensic Science.
Operation Praghat, launched by STF Assam, was a decisive counter-insurgency initiative that dismantled a clandestine Jehadi network operating within the state. The operation’s success averted potential extremist activities in sensitive areas, earning commendation from both state and central security agencies.
Senior Assam Police officials hailed the recognition as “a proud moment for the entire police fraternity,” adding that it reflects Assam’s growing capabilities in advanced counter-terrorism and intelligence-led operations.
The Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak is conferred annually by the Ministry of Home Affairs to recognise police officers and units demonstrating extraordinary professionalism, courage, and excellence in the line of duty.
